SEOUL (SOUTH KOREA) (ITALPRESS) – Kia is enhancing the energy management capabilities of its electric vehicle (EV) range with the launch of smart charging services and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) solutions in select states across Europe and the USA. This initiative marks a significant step in Hyundai Motor Group’s global program for Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) services. The rollout of Smart Charging in the Netherlands and V2H emergency backup in several US states starting at the end of February signals the beginning of a new era. These services lay the groundwork for further integration of innovative features in Hyundai Motor Company’s electrified lineup, aligning with the Group’s goal to transform electric vehicles into efficient, connected energy hubs, extending beyond traditional transportation concepts.
Kia’s Smart Charging service, available to customers in the Netherlands, is designed to optimize charging costs by taking advantage of varying electricity rates throughout the day. By charging during off-peak times, EV users can save significantly on their energy bills. The Kia Smart Charge app, available for free download on the Apple Store and Google Play Store, is compatible with any home charger. It synchronizes vehicle data with the energy provider to ensure charging occurs during the most cost-effective times. This year, Kia plans to expand its offerings with the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) service, enabling users to feed excess energy back into the grid.
In the United States, Kia will introduce V2H functionality on February 28 in seven states, including California. This service converts the EV9 into a power source, capable of functioning as an emergency backup during grid outages, minimizing disruptions. Additionally, it allows the EV9 to store energy when rates are low and use it at home when rates spike, significantly optimizing household energy costs.
Kia is committed to expanding V2H to more states and additional EV models, prioritizing key markets while closely collaborating with regulatory bodies. In California, Kia is working with major utility services to further extend its V2G program. These initiatives align with the Group’s vision to turn electric vehicles into essential energy sources, reducing costs for consumers and enhancing energy resilience.
“As part of Hyundai Motor Group’s global Vehicle-to-Everything initiative, Kia’s new services are designed to offer EV owners not only greater convenience but also significant cost-saving advantages and improved energy management efficiency. By expanding the functionalities of our EVs beyond mere transportation, we are reinforcing Kia’s leadership position in the rapidly evolving EV sector. Our commitment to introducing innovative solutions like V2H and V2G underscores Kia’s role at the forefront of this transition, firmly dedicated to creating a more sustainable and connected future for our customers,” stated Heung Soo Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Strategy Office at Hyundai Motor Group.
photo: Kia Italy press office
(ITALPRESS).
